Hurlers defeat Derry for first win of campaign

Armagh hurlers got their first win of the league in Derry city on Sunday, when they put in a good performance to claim a 6 point win over their Ulster rivals.

Nathan Curry opened the scoring early on with a long-range free, but the opening period was nip and tuck with the sides trading scores. Davy Carvill with two and Curry with another long-ranger left it 0-4 apiece, but Armagh pushed ahead with another converted free from Carvill followed up by a goal from Eoin McGuinness. Carvill was again accurate from the dead ball, but the home side were offered a chance to stop the Orchard’s momentum when the referee awarded a penalty. The strike was initially saved by Simon Doherty, but the rebound fell to Derry captain Oisín McCloskey who finished to the net. The visitors however, reacted very well and points from Connor McAnallen and two from David Carvill, including Armagh’s first from play, was followed up by a goal from Derrynoose’s David McCreesh to leave the Orchard side looking comfortable at half time.

HT Ard Mhacha 2-9 Doire 1-5

Derry opened the scoring in the second half and Nathan Green hit a fine score to get Armagh off the mark. With Armagh winning the lion’s share of the puck outs, Derry’s problems were compounded when they were reduced to 14. The ensuing free was sent over by Carvill, but quick scores from Derry kept them in it. John Corvan fired over for Armagh, but again Derry responded with two more. Armagh were left incensed by a call from the linesman which resulted in a red for Nathan Curry, but a good score from Eoin McGuinness settled the team again. Derry battled on and two quick points reduced the deficit to a single goal, but two important scores from Armagh vice-captain Stephen Renaghan either side of a Derry effort kept breathing space. And with time ticking away, Armagh ensured a good win with a great John Corvan effort from distance, followed up by points from David Carvill from the free and a good score from Barry Shortt.

FT Ard Mhacha 2-18 Doire 1-15

Armagh will be happy with their first win of the campaign, but the performance right across the field will have pleased Armagh manager, Paddy Kelly. They now host Donegal, who had a fantastic win against Down, next Sunday at the Athletic Grounds

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